Rose Gardening

March 2007

By Gene Joyner, Extension Agent
Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service

Roses this time of year are really putting out strong flushes of new growth and initiating a lot of flower buds. If you haven’t fertilized in the last few weeks, make sure you fertilize as soon as possible to insure that this new growth and flower production is excellent and does not show any deficiencies.

Because of the rapid growth some pinching or pruning on plants might be required to keep them at desirable heights or shapes and you can do that virtually at any time. Remember that during the spring months many societies have spring flower shows so you need to check the garden more frequently to check for pests that might be attacking foliage or developing flower buds.

This time of year scarab beetles are showing up and scarab beetles like light colored flowers, particularly whites, yellows, or pale pinks. They are generally only around for a few weeks in the spring, but they can do major damage to flowers.

This time of year spider mites also can be a major threat and with spider mites regular syringing with water will help dislodge them or you can use insecticidal soap products on a regular basis, too, if you don’t want to use some of the more harsh chemicals.

Remember that many roses make great container specimens on a porch or patio and many rose nurseries have good selections this time of year. A lot of the miniature roses can be rooted easily from cuttings and these don’t have to be grafted if you don’t want to.

If you have questions about rose problems this time of year that you’re seeing, check with fellow members at monthly meetings or contact your local county Extension office.